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The following was submitted by the Network for Social Justice:
July is Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and diversity of the disability community while honoring the civil rights milestones that have paved the way for greater inclusion.
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the landmark legislation signed on July 26, 1990, that prohibits discrimination based on disability and promotes equal opportunity across all areas of public life.
The passage of the ADA was a powerful victory, built on years of activism, advocacy, and grassroots organizing. As Sen. Bob Dole said at the time, “We need this legislation not only because it is just and fair for people with disabilities, but because all of us can benefit from the talents and abilities of all Americans.”
Since then, Disability Pride events across the country have continued to affirm this spirit, including Boston’s historic Disability Pride Parade in 1990, just months after the ADA was signed into law.
Celebrating disability pride in Boston
This year’s Disability Pride Month includes a public celebration in Boston’s City Hall Square on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at noon. The event will feature music, speakers, and a powerful reminder of the disability community’s pride, resilience, and right to visibility.
Let this month serve as a reminder that Disability Pride is not only about rights, it’s about joy, culture, and community.
Another opportunity to gain an appreciation for the challenges and resilience of people with disabilities is to watch “The Ride Ahead,” a POV film released Monday, July 21, and streaming on PBS. The lead in the film is Samuel Habib who with his father, photojournalist Daniel Habib, have made several award-winning films including “Disability Road Map.”
Local and regional resources for people with disabilities
In recognition of Disability Pride Month, we are highlighting resources that support inclusion, accessibility, and independence for people with disabilities in Winchester and the surrounding region.
The following organizations offer services ranging from advocacy and accessibility to inclusive programming, independent living, and communication support.
In Winchester
Winchester Disability Access Commission
This volunteer-led town commission works to promote accessibility and inclusion across Winchester. It advises on ADA compliance and town infrastructure, collaborates with town departments, and supports awareness and advocacy. Community members can contact the ADA Coordinator for questions or requests.
Regional Resources
Based in Woburn, NuPath provides services for adults with disabilities, including job training, community engagement, residential support, and life-skills development. Their goal is to create pathways to independence and meaningful inclusion.
Programs are person-centered and adaptive to individual needs.
Communitas offers family support, employment training, recreational opportunities, and residential services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
With offices in Wakefield and Woburn, they serve all ages and partner with families to create inclusive, fulfilling lives. Emergency assistance and wraparound services are also available.
For the Hearing Impaired
Massachusetts Relay Service (Dial 711)
This free service connects individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-disabled with standard telephone users. Callers can use a TTY or other assistive technology to communicate via a relay operator. Dial 711 from any phone in Massachusetts to access the service. mass.gov
DEAF, Inc. provides independent living services, advocacy, and educational programming for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Their services include interpreter referrals, peer mentoring, health literacy programs, and youth engagement.
DEAF, Inc. is Deaf-led and culturally aligned with the communities it serves.
For the Visually Impaired
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB)
MCB serves individuals of all ages who are legally blind by offering vocational rehabilitation, independent living skills training, and technology assistance. They work with individuals, schools, and employers to increase accessibility and economic self-sufficiency.
MCB also connects people with adaptive tools, housing, and community support.
For more information, visit the Network for Social Justice or reach out to local partners listed above. Together, let’s continue building a more accessible and inclusive future.
